August 25, 2009 Archives

The official version of the syllabus is always the online version (though I will notify you in advance of any significant changes).

After introductions, we'll get started writing right away. I'll announce the topic in class.

Homework due Thursday:

In order to take the pretest during class on Thursday, purchase the MyCompLab access code. (It comes bundled with the SF Writer at the bookstore. )

In order to learn about college writing, to help you with the writing assignment due Thursday, and to prepare you to participate in a class discussion on Thursday, read chapters 1-2 in SF Writer.

Writing a polished paragraph, about 200 words, on the topic I'll introduce shortly. The revision is due the next time the class meets. In the future you will upload your submissions before class, but for now, just bring an electronic copy to class. (This is assignment P1, which we'll talk about shortly.)

A bright high school student who shows up without causing trouble, completes all the assigned worksheets, and crams before exams can
generally expect four years of decent grades. College raises the bar.

The key to academic achievement is time-management.

When students really bomb one of my classes, I find that it's typically not because they're hopeless writers, or "bad at grammar," or anything like that. No, the big problem is usually a stretch of zeros, or too many zeroes here
and there, that crush their final grade.

The students at the top of the class get there because they plan weeks
ahead, consistently budgeting time for serious, concentrated work.

In about 200 carefully chosen words, teach
me who you are as a writer. Use vivid examples that unite to illustrate a single main idea. Do it all in a single, well-crafted paragraph.

The main page for Paragraph 1
includes the full assignment instructions, some background information
and tips, and the evaluation rubric, for you to read through on your own. (We won't have time to
cover it all in class.)